Home

The Sacraments

For Episcopalians, the Sacraments are "outward and visible signs of inward and spiritual graces, given by Christ as sure and certain means by which we receive that grace."  (Book of Common Prayer, page 857)  The following are general guidelines regarding the Sacraments and their use within the life of St. John's Church.

Baptism

Baptism is the entrance into the Christian community by which we become members of God's family and inheritors of the Kingdom of Heaven.  We encourage Baptisms to be celebrated at public services during the visitation of the Bishop or on four major feast days of the Church: the Feast of the Baptism of Our Lord, Easter Eve, Pentecost and All Saints' Day.  Baptisms are usually not celebrated during Lent.  The clergy provides pre-Baptismal instructions for adults to be baptized and to parents and Godparents of infants.  It is expected that the parents of infants who are to be baptized are members of our parish, or intend to become members.

Eucharist

The Eucharist, or Holy Communion, is the Sacrament commended by Christ for His continual remembrance and is the central act of our worship at St. John's.  All baptized Christians who receive communion in their own church are invited to join us in receiving Communion.

Confirmation

Confirmation expresses a mature commitment to Jesus as Lord and the reception of the Holy Spirit.  It is administered by the Laying on of Hands by the Bishop.  Discovery Classes for preparation for Confirmation are held for adults and children.

Anointing of the Sick

The rite of anointing with oil is administered during the Healing Service on Wednesday evenings at 7:00 PM.  The clergy visit in the hospitals and homes to anoint and minister to the sick.

Reconciliation

The Sacrament of Reconciliation, also called Confession, is available at any time by appointment with the clergy.

Ordination

The Episcopal Church is an apostolic church continuing the teaching and fellowship of the apostles.  Through the ordinations of Bishops, Priests, and Deacons God gives the grace of the Sacraments and authority of His Church.  All ordinations are administered by the Laying on of Hands by a Bishop.

Marriage

Christian Marriage is a lifelong union between a man and a woman who ask God's blessing to fulfill their vows.  At least one of the couple should be a baptized Christian and a member of St. John's or intending to join the parish.  The priest does pre-marital counseling.  Three months notice is necessary to provide time for this preparation.  Marriages are usually not celebrated during the season of Lent.